Frank & Bright Funeral Home

Robert "Bob" VanDyke

Aug 18th, 1922 - Apr 12th, 2018

Robert “Bob” L. VanDyke, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away Thursday, April 12, 2018, after a life of 95 years.

Bob was born August 18, 1922, the son of Virgil and Jessie (Britton) VanDyke in Blair Township, Clay County, Illinois. He married Marie Dell Hornbuckle on April 4, 1945. Together they had two children: Steve VanDyke (Ann) of Mt. Vernon and Ann VanDyke of Louisville.

Bob and Marie also were blessed with 3 grandchildren: Jacob Wendling (Erin), Tad VanDyke (Mandy), and Clay VanDyke (Yuko); and a grand step-daughter: Shawn Pitts (Mark). They also have 8 great-grandchildren: Falyn, Addyson, Isaac and Finn VanDyke, and Hayden, Melia, Elijah and Lydia Wendling.

Bob served in the military during WWII in the Pacific Theater. After coming home from the service he was the owner/operator of Louisville Service Station, was Clay County Sheriff, and served for many more years as Clay County Clerk and Recorder until his retirement. Bob was a member of the American Legion Post #914 in Louisville, being one of its earliest members. He was a member of the Louisville Christian Church and was also a member of the Flora Elks, the Masonic Lodge and the Ainad Shrine.

He is survived by his children, Steve and Ann, and their children and grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Marie Dell; and siblings: Lily, Lois, Inez, Jack and Bill.

Bob lived a long and full life and was blessed with a loving family and many wonderful friends and colleagues, most of whom have gone on before. He will be missed.

Per Bob’s directive, there will be no visitation or funeral. Memorials may be made in his name to Louisville American Legion Post #914. Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.